Pioneers and Classics Battle it Out in 1-1 Draw

Surrey Classics 1 Richmond Pioneers 1

Sunday Nov 28, 2004 - Although this eagerly awaited match up between arguably the South Division's top two teams ended in a tie, the game was a glowing testament to the competitive spirit that still burns fiercely in the souls of these aging weekend warriors, who still play the beautiful game with passion and dedication. That and the knowledge that win or lose, the beer still tastes great!

Not that either of these teams lose much. The Surrey Classics current 40+ game unbeaten streak is impressive, especially in light of the parity that has emerged this season amongst the 14 teams in the South Division. And the Pioneers, of course, don't need to be reminded that their only loss last season was at the hands of the Classics, ending their own unbeaten run at 27 games.

Although both teams would have prefered to do battle on grass, the game was switched to the artificial turf at Newton Athletic Park, a surface the Pioneers haven't played on since, well, that game we just mentioned that began with the 'L' word.

Although the first five minutes seemed to be played in the Classics end, Surrey gradually started to control the proceedings, denying the Pioneers any space and time on the ball. The game was being played at a, hmmm, 'blistering' pace, and the Classics were using their long throw-ins to great effect. Inevitably, Surrey started getting some corner kicks, and this is one team that is particularly strong on set plays.

Fortunately, it became evident early that Pioneer goalie Gary Bryne was definitely up for this game as he stood his ground firmly, blocking and saving shots as the Classics were dominating. The Pioneers even survived a hectic goalmouth scramble that ensued after the referee awarded an indirect free kick inside the penalty area, some 14 yards from goal.

Around the half hour mark, the Classics broke the deadlock with a nice, dipping shot from outside the area that Byrne got his fingertips to, but not enough to prevent it going into the net.

Although the Pioneers had some offensive forays of their own, their wayward finishing failed to test the Classics keeper. At the half time break it remained 1-0, although it could have been more if not for the fine display from Gary Byrne.

The second half saw play gradually starting to shift to the Pioneers. The Pioneer back four were holding firm, while the Classics back line finally started to show a few cracks. Midway through the second half the Pioneers equalized when a curling, dipping shot from Denis Harvington from over 20 yards out eluded the Surrey keeper, a goal remarkably similar to the Classics earlier marker, from the same position even.

The goal shifted the momentum dramatically, and the Classics started to look a little tired. Chances were falling for the Pioneers, although the Classics were still very dangerous on corner kicks and long throw ins (it seems the entire team can throw the #@&#ing thing 30 yards or more!).

As the game moved into the final phase, the Pioneers looked the more likely of the two teams to break the deadlock. Graham Mason missed a glorious chance for the Pioneers, as his left footed shot from close range went agonizingly wide of the top corner, a definite reprieve for the Classics. Eugene Kishmere also was through on goal, but his weak shot from close range was right at the keeper.

In the final seconds of the game, Bruce Cook had a chance to win it for the Classics, but Gary Byrne dove at his feet to snuff out the danger. There was no way Gary was going to let Bruce have the final word! (There's a history there).

As the final whistle blew on an enthralling battle between these two teams, the Pioneers—on the balance of play—were happy to take the 1-1 scoreline against a very good team that can rightly call itself the best of the South Division.

But there is always next time, as the Pioneers eagerly look forward to the return match in March on the natural surface of McMath. Grass? No way! By the time March comes round, McMath will be more like playing on Copacabana Beach!

Man of the match: Gary Byrne.

Read the Surrey Classics match report

Next Week: Expect another tough game, against Polonia at McMath.

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